At Cranleigh FC, the safety and wellbeing of all our players—especially children and young people—remains our top priority. With that in mind, we’d like to share important guidance from The FA regarding age banding and adult participation in youth football settings.
Age banding for youth players
The FA mandates a two-to-three-year age banding system for children under 16 participating in recognised matches. This structure is designed to support appropriate child development by ensuring young players compete alongside peers of similar physical and emotional maturity.
While there will naturally be variations in development within any age group, these regulations help reduce the risk of placing children in situations where they may be outmatched physically or exposed to unsafe play.
Why adults should not play in youth sessions
The FA strongly advises against adults participating in youth football activities (including training sessions and informal matches involving players under 16). The significant difference in size, strength, and skill can create a high risk of injury for young players—even in seemingly light-hearted scenarios like ‘Lads vs Dads’ games.
Unfortunately, incidents involving injury to a child caused by an adult have previously led to legal action. These situations may not be covered by standard club insurance, leaving both the adult and the club vulnerable.
Coaches and adult involvement
Even experienced coaches—no matter how careful—must not take part in youth training games or matches. FA coaching courses are clear on this matter: coaches should not join in sessions as players. Doing so is not only contrary to best practice but also violates The FA Respect Code of Conduct and may result in disciplinary action.
Our responsibility
As a club, we’re committed to ensuring all sessions are delivered safely, fairly, and in line with FA guidance. We kindly ask all parents, guardians, and coaches to support this by avoiding any physical participation in youth football sessions or matches.
If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact our safeguarding team or email us at welfare@cranleighfc.co.uk.
Let’s continue working together to keep football fun, safe, and inclusive for every young player.
